US8047110B2 - Positioning system and carriage assembly for converting machines - Google Patents

Positioning system and carriage assembly for converting machines Download PDF

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Publication number
US8047110B2
US8047110B2 US11/314,390 US31439005A US8047110B2 US 8047110 B2 US8047110 B2 US 8047110B2 US 31439005 A US31439005 A US 31439005A US 8047110 B2 US8047110 B2 US 8047110B2
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United States
Prior art keywords
carriers
positioner
carrier
wall surface
rails
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US11/314,390
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US20060162519A1 (en
Inventor
Michael Pappas
William Christman
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CATBRIDGE MACHINERY LLC
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CATBRIDGE MACHINERY LLC
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Priority to US11/314,390 priority Critical patent/US8047110B2/en
Assigned to CATBRIDGE MACHINERY, L.L.C. reassignment CATBRIDGE MACHINERY, L.L.C. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CHRISTMAN, WILLIAM, PAPPAS, MICHAEL
Assigned to CATBRIDGE MACHINERY, L.L.C. reassignment CATBRIDGE MACHINERY, L.L.C. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CHRISTMAN, WILLIAM, PAPPAS, MICHAEL
Assigned to CATBRIDGE MACHINERY L.L.C. reassignment CATBRIDGE MACHINERY L.L.C. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CHRISTMAN, WILLIAM, PAPPAS, MICHAEL T.
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D7/00—Details of apparatus for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D7/26—Means for mounting or adjusting the cutting member; Means for adjusting the stroke of the cutting member
    • B26D7/2628—Means for adjusting the position of the cutting member
    • B26D7/2635—Means for adjusting the position of the cutting member for circular cutters
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D7/00—Details of apparatus for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D2007/0012—Details, accessories or auxiliary or special operations not otherwise provided for
    • B26D2007/0075—Details, accessories or auxiliary or special operations not otherwise provided for so-called "winder slitters"
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D7/00—Details of apparatus for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D7/26—Means for mounting or adjusting the cutting member; Means for adjusting the stroke of the cutting member
    • B26D2007/2657—Auxiliary carriages for moving the tool holders
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D5/00—Arrangements for operating and controlling machines or devices for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D5/02—Means for moving the cutting member into its operative position for cutting
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
    • B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
    • B26D5/00—Arrangements for operating and controlling machines or devices for cutting, cutting-out, stamping-out, punching, perforating, or severing by means other than cutting
    • B26D5/02—Means for moving the cutting member into its operative position for cutting
    • B26D5/06—Means for moving the cutting member into its operative position for cutting by electrical means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T83/00—Cutting
    • Y10T83/162—With control means responsive to replaceable or selectable information program
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T83/00—Cutting
    • Y10T83/647—With means to convey work relative to tool station
    • Y10T83/6584—Cut made parallel to direction of and during work movement
    • Y10T83/6587—Including plural, laterally spaced tools
    • Y10T83/6588—Tools mounted on common tool support
    • Y10T83/659—Tools axially shiftable on support
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T83/00—Cutting
    • Y10T83/768—Rotatable disc tool pair or tool and carrier
    • Y10T83/7747—With means to permit replacement of tool
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T83/00—Cutting
    • Y10T83/768—Rotatable disc tool pair or tool and carrier
    • Y10T83/7809—Tool pair comprises rotatable tools
    • Y10T83/783—Tool pair comprises contacting overlapped discs
    • Y10T83/7843—With means to change overlap of discs
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T83/00—Cutting
    • Y10T83/929—Tool or tool with support
    • Y10T83/9309—Anvil
    • Y10T83/9312—Rotatable type

Definitions

  • the subject invention relates to converting machinery, and more particularly to, a carriage assembly and an automated knife positioning system for score slitting machines, razor slitting machines and shear slitting machines.
  • FIG. 1 A prior art score slitting machine for processing media is illustrated in FIG. 1 and is designated generally by reference numeral 10 .
  • slitting machine 10 includes a hardened score roll 12 against which media is slit or otherwise cut into desired widths, as the media is conveyed from an unwind which supports a web of uncut media to a rewind which accumulates the media after it has been cut into the desired widths.
  • Slitting machine 10 further includes a carriage assembly 14 for supporting a plurality of score knives for slitting the media into desired widths.
  • carriage assembly 14 supports a plurality of pneumatic knife holders 16 on a horizontal support bar 18 in spaced relationship.
  • the knife holders vary in size, but the most common knife holders are 1 ⁇ 2′′ wide. Dozens of knife holders can be positioned on the support bar at one time to perform a slitting operation.
  • the support bar 18 has a dovetail configuration, as best seen in FIG. 2 , which facilitates the ready removal and manual positioning of the knife holders 16 in a desired location by way of clamping screw 20 .
  • Each knife holder 16 carries a rotary score knife 22 and is connected to a common air manifold 24 by way of an air hose 26 . In use, air pressure is applied to the knife holders 16 and regulated to achieve a desired cutting pressure against the score roll 12 .
  • the invention includes a carrier for supporting a blade for a converting machine.
  • the carrier includes a carrier body.
  • the carrier body is adapted and configured to support a blade for performing an operation (e.g., cutting) on a web of material.
  • the carrier body includes a first body portion and a second body portion. Each of the first body portion and second body portion includes at least one mounting feature adapted and configured for mounting the carrier on a first rail and second rail, respectively.
  • each carrier can be provided with a plurality of rail positions that can be positioned proximate a mounting rail on a converting machine.
  • the first body portion and second body portion can be provided with first through second rail positions and third through fourth rail positions, respectively.
  • At least one mounting feature of the first body portion and second body portion can be positioned at one of the first or second rail positions and third or fourth rail positions, respectively.
  • first body portion and second body portion can be provided with first through third rail positions and fourth through sixth rail positions, respectively.
  • At least one mounting feature of the first body portion and second body portion can be positioned at one of the first through third and fourth through sixth rail positions, respectively.
  • the first body portion can define at least one recess for accommodating at least one rail therethrough.
  • the recess can be located in at least one of the first, second and third rail positions.
  • the mounting feature can be located at the first rail position, and the recess spans the second and third rail positions.
  • the second body portion can include fourth, fifth and sixth rail positions, and the at least one mounting feature of the second body portion can be positioned at one of the fourth, fifth and sixth rail positions.
  • the second body portion can include at least one recess for accommodating at least one rail, the recess being located in at least one of the first through third rail positions.
  • the mounting feature can be located at the fifth rail position, and the second body portion can include recesses at the fourth and sixth rail positions.
  • the carrier embodied herein can further include a blade.
  • the blade can be chosen from the group consisting of razor blades, shear slitting blades and score slitting blades.
  • the carrier can further include a blade holder for supporting the blade.
  • the carrier body may further define a mounting flange for supporting the blade holder.
  • the mounting flange can be a dovetailed mounting flange for supporting an industry standard blade holder.
  • the blade holder and carrier body may be integrally formed.
  • the carrier body further includes a medial body portion disposed between the first body portion and the second body portion. The mounting flange can be disposed on any of the upper, medial and second body portions.
  • first body portion and second body portions are merely for matter of convenience.
  • the carriers embodied herein can be adjusted to be in any vertical or horizontal orientation, and the terms upper and lower can, in fact, relate to right and left body portions, first and second body portions, and the like.
  • At least one mounting feature can be a first bushing affixed to the upper and/or second body portion one of the rail locations. If desired, the first bushing can be received inside a mounting sleeve integral with the first body portion. Alternatively, the first bushing can be removably attached to the first body portion by way of one or more threaded fasteners.
  • the first bushing can be provided with an axial length that is coextensive with or greater than a width of the carrier body. In accordance with one embodiment, the first bushing can have an axial length that is about five times the width of the carrier body.
  • the bushing can be made from a different material than the carrier body.
  • the carrier body can be made from a harder material than the bushing.
  • the carrier body can be made from steel, and the bushing can be made from a material chosen from the group consisting of bronze, nylon and a fluoropolymer.
  • the carrier can also include ball bearings disposed within at least one of the mounting features.
  • the carrier can include various features.
  • the carrier can include a marker disposed on the carrier body for indicating a position of the carrier on the plurality of rails.
  • the marker can be an optical marker or a magnetic marker, among others.
  • the carrier can also include a positioner receiving portion disposed on the carrier body for receiving a portion of a positioner.
  • the positioner receiving portion may define a concavity for receiving a rounded portion of the positioner.
  • a system for performing an operation on a web of material such as slitting.
  • the system includes a carriage assembly having an elongate housing including a first wall, where the first wall defining a longitudinal axis.
  • a first plurality of rails can be mounted on the first wall, wherein the plurality of rails extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. At least one of the plurality of rails can have a substantially circular cross section, among others.
  • the system also includes a first plurality of carriers such as those described hereinabove.
  • a portion of a bushing of a first carrier can be received by a recess on a second adjacent carrier.
  • Adjacent carriers mounted on rails adjacent the first wall can be placed in close proximity to one another.
  • a blade provided on the first carrier can be mounted within half an inch of a blade on the second carrier.
  • a linear actuator having a positioner operatively associated with the elongate housing can be provided.
  • the linear actuator can include a drive for displacing the positioner along a direction of travel.
  • the positioner may be adapted and configured to selectively position at least a first carrier of the first plurality of carriers in a desired location along the plurality of rails.
  • the first carrier can define a positioner receiving portion, and the positioner can includes an engagement member for engaging the positioner receiving portion.
  • the engagement member can be displaceable between a first position where the engagement member is engaged with the positioner receiving portion; and a second position where the engagement member is disengaged from the positioner receiving portion.
  • the positioner receiving portion can be defined at least in part by a concavity for receiving the engagement member.
  • the first carrier can include a marker
  • the positioner can further includes a position sensor for selectively locating the first carrier by detecting the marker.
  • the marker can be an optical markers and/or a magnetic marker or a radio frequency identification marker, among others.
  • a control system can be provided for controlling the system.
  • the control system can include a controller including a processor and memory.
  • the controller can be operatively associated with the linear actuator and positioner, wherein the controller is programmed to instruct the positioner to selectively position at least one of the first plurality of carriers in a desired location along the plurality of rails.
  • the controller may be programmed to instruct the positioner to position one or more carriers in accordance with a setup configuration.
  • the controller may be a PLC (programmable logic controller) based controller or a PC (personal computer) based controller, among others.
  • the controller can be programmed to compare a quantity of carriers in the system and a quantity of locations to position carriers needed to satisfy the setup configuration, wherein the setup configuration is a predetermined setup configuration stored in the memory.
  • the controller can be further programmed to prompt an operator of the system if more carriers are required to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the controller can be further programmed to calculate the storage area and storage locations for carriers not needed to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the controller can be further programmed to minimize the time necessary to execute the setup configuration. For example, the controller can minimize the time necessary to execute the setup configuration at least in part by calculating the minimum number of moves needed to be made by the positioner.
  • the controller may be further programmed to send a series of commands to the linear actuator and positioner to move the carriers to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the controller may additionally be programmed to send instructions to the positioner to scan the location of each carrier by using a position sensor operatively associated with the positioner.
  • the controller can be further programmed to determine whether each carrier has been positioned within a tolerance range, and optionally to instruct the positioner to perform additional moves to the carriers to achieve the tolerance range required to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • a graphical user interface can be provided.
  • the graphical user interface may be operably coupled to the controller, and adapted and configured for displaying information and for receiving instructions from an operator.
  • the graphical user interface can be adapted and configured to facilitate storage and retrieval of a plurality of setup configurations.
  • the system can further include an electronically controlled air manifold operably coupled to the controller.
  • the air manifold can be pneumatically coupled to the carriers and adapted and configured to selectively actuate a blade in each carrier from a first retracted position to a second extended position.
  • the controller can also be programmed to actuate one or more blades necessary to perform a desired web slitting operation.
  • the air manifold can also be pneumatically coupled to a locking bladder.
  • the locking bladder can be changed from an unlocked, uninflated state where it does not contact the carriers, permitting the carriers to move along the rails, to a locked, inflated state, where the carriers are locked in position along the rails.
  • the system can be adapted and configured to verify the position of each blade holder after the bladder has been inflated.
  • the system can be provided with a second set of rails and carriers.
  • the carriage assembly may further include a second wall disposed proximate the first wall.
  • the second wall may be displaced from the first wall along a direction of travel of the web.
  • a second plurality of rails can be mounted on the second wall extending parallel to the longitudinal axis, and a second plurality of carriers may be disposed on the second plurality of rails.
  • the positioner may be adapted and configured to selectively position each of a first carrier of the first plurality of carriers and a second carrier from the second plurality of carriers in a desired location along the plurality of rails on each wall.
  • the first carrier and second carrier may each define a positioner receiving portion for receiving an engagement member of the positioner.
  • the engagement member may be displaceable along a direction generally parallel or perpendicular to the first and second walls.
  • the controller can be programmed to instruct the positioner to selectively position the first carrier and second carrier along the plurality of rails in accordance with a setup configuration.
  • the controller can be configured to arrange the carriers along the first wall in alignment with carriers displaced along the second wall. If desired, the carriers along the first wall can be out of alignment with carriers displaced along the second wall.
  • the carriers in each of the first plurality of carriers and second plurality of carriers can be in mutually supporting intimate contact.
  • a locking bladder can be provided to hold each carrier in the system in position after being positioned by the positioner.
  • the invention provides a machine readable program containing instructions for controlling a system for performing an operation on a web of material.
  • the system can include, for example, a carriage assembly having at least one set of rails, a plurality of carriers disposed on the set of rails, each carrier including a blade or other instrumentality, a linear actuator and positioner for selectively positioning at least one of the carriers along the plurality of rails, and a controller operatively associated with the positioner, the controller including a processor and a memory.
  • the program includes means for instructing the positioner to selectively position at least one of the carriers in a desired location along the plurality of rails.
  • the program can further include means for instructing the positioner to selectively position at least one of the carriers in a desired location along the rails in accordance with a setup configuration.
  • the program can also include means for comparing the quantity of carriers in the system and the quantity of locations to position carriers needed to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the setup configuration can be a predetermined setup configuration stored in the memory, or can be input manually by an operator or imported from another source, such as computer readable media, a computer network or wireless connection.
  • the program can also include means for prompting an operator if more carriers are required to satisfy the setup configuration, as well as means for calculating the storage area and storage locations for carriers not needed to satisfy the setup configuration, if desired.
  • the program can optionally include means for substantially minimizing the time necessary to execute the setup configuration, such as by calculating the minimum number of moves needed to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the computer program includes means for sending a series of commands to the linear actuator and positioner to move the carriers to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the program includes means for sending instructions to the positioner to scan the location of each carrier by using a position sensor operatively associated with the positioner.
  • the program can include means for determining whether each carrier has been positioned within a tolerance range, and means for performing additional moves to the carriers to achieve the tolerance range required to satisfy the setup configuration, if desired.
  • the program may further include means for receiving instructions from an operator entered into a graphical user interface operably coupled to the controller. If desired, the program can further include means for facilitating storage and retrieval of a plurality of setup configurations.
  • the program can also include means for actuating an electronically controlled air manifold operably coupled to the controller, wherein the air manifold is pneumatically coupled to the carriers.
  • the program may include means for pneumatically actuating an instrumentality in each carrier, such as a blade, from a first retracted position to a second extended position to perform a desired operation on the web, such as slitting.
  • the program may also include means for verifying that a cut width does not exceed a width of the web of material to be cut, as well as means for verifying that the cut width does not exceed a travel limit of the actuator based upon the position of a first carrier. Means may be provided in the program for instructing the operator to verify the number and range of carriers currently installed.
  • the program can further include means for performing an initial scan to determine the position of each selected carrier prior to moving the carriers with the positioner.
  • the program may also include means for checking that the proper number of carriers are installed, means for checking that the carriers that are installed are within predefined limits, and means for checking a store position of each blade.
  • Means can also be provided in the program for applying air to at least one locking bladder to hold one or more carriers in position.
  • the program can further include means to verify the position of each carrier after inflation of the at least one locking bladder.
  • a method in further accordance with the invention, includes the steps of providing a carriage assembly including at least one wall, a plurality of rails mounted on the wall and a plurality of carriers as embodied herein. Each carrier is capable of supporting an instrumentality for performing an operation on a converting machine.
  • the method further includes the step of providing a positioner operatively coupled to the carriage assembly, and operating the positioner to selectively position at least one of the carriers in a desired location along the plurality of rails.
  • the positioner can be operated to position the at least one of the carriers in a desired location in accordance with a setup configuration as described herein.
  • the positioner can be operated to scan the location of each carrier by using a position sensor operatively associated with the positioner.
  • the method can further include determining whether each carrier has been positioned within a tolerance range. Furthermore, additional moves to one or more of the carriers can be performed with the positioner to achieve the tolerance range required to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the method can also include, for example, actuating an electronically controlled air manifold operably coupled to the carriers to actuating an instrumentality, such as a blade in each carrier from a first retracted position to a second extended position to perform a desired web slitting operation.
  • FIG. 1 is a graphical representation of a conventional prior art score-slitting machine
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the manner in which a conventional prior art score slitting machine operates to slit material scoring a scoring knife;
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a multi-rail carriage assembly for a score slitting machine as shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the knife carriers of the subject invention are shown in spaced apart relationship;
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a multi-rail carriage assembly for a score slitting machine as shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the knife carriers of the subject invention are shown in a closed or nested position in mutually supporting contact;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-rail carriage assembly of the subject invention, with the carriage positioning mechanism disposed in a disengaged position;
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-rail carriage assembly of the subject invention, with the carriage positioning mechanism disposed in an engaged position;
  • FIGS. 7( a ) through 7 ( f ) are perspective views of the six different knife carriers constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the subject invention.
  • FIGS. 8( a ) and 8 ( b ) are front plan views of the six knife carriers of the subject invention in an open spaced apart position and in a closed nested position, respectively.
  • FIGS. 9( a ) and 9 ( b ) are partial side and front views of a second embodiment of a device made in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the embodiment of FIG. 9 with both banks of carriers disengaged from the positioner.
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic view of the embodiment of FIG. 9 with a first bank of carriers engaged with the positioner and a second bank of carriers disengaged from the positioner.
  • FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the embodiment of FIG. 9 with a first bank of carriers disengaged from the positioner and a second bank of carriers engaged with the positioner.
  • FIG. 13 is an isometric view of the carrier of FIG. 9 .
  • FIG. 14 is an isometric view of the carrier of FIG. 9 showing a view of the opposite side of the carriage from FIG. 13 .
  • FIGS. 15( a )- 15 ( f ) are a left side plan view, a top plan view, a right side plan view, a bottom plan view, a drive end plan view and an idle end plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 9 , respectively.
  • FIG. 16 is a view of the embodiment of FIG. 9 further depicting a lift assembly support operatively connected to the carriage assembly.
  • FIGS. 17( a )- 17 ( b ) are partial schematic views of the embodiment of FIG. 9 depicting a plurality of carriers in a spaced apart arrangement and a closed nested arrangement, respectively.
  • FIGS. 18( a )- 18 ( d ) depict various views of a carrier of the embodiment of FIG. 9 .
  • FIGS. 19( a )- 19 ( b ) are assembled and exploded isometric views of a portion of the positioner assembly of FIG. 9 .
  • FIG. 20 is a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a system made in accordance with the present invention illustrating the control and pneumatic systems of the system.
  • Devices made in accordance with the present invention include, for example, a new and useful automated positioning system for a converting machine, such as a score slitting machine, that is adapted to reduce the setup time needed to position a plurality of instrumentalities, such as knife holders, on a carriage assembly, and a unique carriage assembly that is configured to use, for example, industry standard dovetail mounted pneumatic score knife holders that achieves slit widths as narrow as 1 ⁇ 2′′ wide.
  • FIG. 3 a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of the system in accordance with the invention is shown in FIG. 3 and is designated generally by reference character 100 .
  • FIGS. 4-20 Other embodiments of a system in accordance with the invention, or aspects thereof, are provided in FIGS. 4-20 , as will be described.
  • Carriage assembly 102 includes an elongated housing 110 having a first wall, 112 .
  • the first wall 112 defines a first longitudinal axis, X in a direction of the width of carriage assembly 102 .
  • Housing 110 also defines a second axis Y (e.g., a vertical axis) as well as a third axis Z (e.g., in the machine direction in which a web of material travels).
  • Carriage 102 can be disposed in any suitable physical orientation (generally vertical or horizontal or other), as is required by the application.
  • Two sets 116 of linear rails 120 are mounted to the first wall 112 of housing 110 . These include an upper set of three parallel rails 120 a - 120 c and a lower set of three parallel rails 120 d - 120 f .
  • the plurality of rails 120 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, X.
  • the six rails 120 a - 120 f each have a generally circular cross-section.
  • the cross-sectional geometry of the rails can differ by choice of design without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject disclosure.
  • rails having ovoid and other types of cross-sections, such as polygonal cross sections are also possible, some of which are depicted in FIGS. 9-12 .
  • the system also includes a first plurality of carriers.
  • Each carrier is adapted and configured to support an instrumentality, such as a knife holder, for performing an operation on a web of material.
  • carriage assembly 102 includes one or more sets of carriers 130 a - 130 f .
  • the carriers 130 a - 130 f which are best illustrated in FIGS. 7 a through 7 f and described in greater detail below, are adapted and configured for use in a spaced apart orientation as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 8 a , or in intimate contact with one another as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 8 b wherein the carriers are in a closed or nested position, depending upon the slitting operation to be performed. In the positions shown in FIGS. 4 and 8 b , a slit width of 1 ⁇ 2′′ can be readily obtained.
  • each carrier 130 includes a carrier body having a first body portion 136 having a first mounting feature 134 and a second body portion 138 having a second mounting feature 134 , wherein each mounting feature 134 is configured and adapted to receive one of the plurality of rails 120 .
  • Each carrier 130 can be provided with a plurality of rail positions that can be positioned proximate a mounting rail on a converting machine.
  • the first body 136 portion and second body portion 138 can be provided with a plurality of rail positions 135 a - n .
  • Each rail position 135 a - 135 n represents a location or range on carrier body 130 that can be aligned with a rail 120 .
  • each carrier 130 is provided with six rail positions 135 a - 135 f , wherein each rail position 135 corresponds with the position of a rail 120 .
  • first body portion 136 is provided with rail positions 135 a - c and second body portion 138 is provided with rail positions 135 d - f .
  • at least one mounting feature 134 is provided proximate a rail position 135 located in the first body portion 136 and in the second body portion 138 .
  • mounting features 134 are located at rail positions 135 a and 135 d in the carriers 130 depicted in FIGS. 7( a ) and 7 ( f ), at rail positions 135 b and 135 e in the carriers depicted in FIGS. 7( b ) and 7 ( e ) and at rail positions 135 c and 135 f in the carriers depicted in FIGS.
  • carriers 130 can include four rail positions 135 a - 135 d to either permit passage of rails or to permit attachment of mounting features 134 as depicted in FIGS. 18( a )- 18 ( d ).
  • each carrier 130 a - 130 f includes an identical dovetailed mounting flange 132 a - 132 f formed thereon for supporting an industry standard blade holder 140 a - 140 f .
  • each carrier 130 a - 130 f includes vertically spaced apart mounting features 134 for receiving two of the six rails 120 a - 120 f of the system 100 .
  • carrier 130 a includes a first mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve supporting a primary bushing 171 located in the first rail position 135 a for receiving the first rail 120 a and a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve supporting a secondary bushing 172 located in the fourth mounting position (i.e., fourth rail position 135 ( d )) for receiving the fourth rail 120 d .
  • first mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve supporting a primary bushing 171 located in the first rail position 135 a for receiving the first rail 120 a
  • a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve supporting a secondary bushing 172 located in the fourth mounting position (i.e., fourth rail position 135 ( d )) for receiving the fourth rail 120 d .
  • carrier 130 b includes a first mounting feature 134 in first body portion 136 including a first mounting sleeve supporting a primary bushing 181 mounted therein for receiving the second rail 120 b and a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve supporting a secondary bushing 182 disposed therein located in the fifth rail position 135 ( e ) for receiving the fifth rail 120 e . As shown in FIG.
  • carrier 130 c includes a first mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve supporting a primary bushing 191 located in the third rail position 135 ( c ) for receiving the third rail 120 c and a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve having a secondary bushing 192 located in the sixth rail position 135 f for receiving the sixth rail 120 f.
  • FIG. 7 d shows carrier 130 d , which includes a first mounting feature 134 that includes a mounting sleeve for supporting primary bushing 211 located in the sixth mounting position 135 f for receiving the sixth rail 120 f and a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve for supporting a secondary bushing 212 , located in the third rail position 135 c for receiving the third rail 120 c .
  • first mounting feature 134 that includes a mounting sleeve for supporting primary bushing 211 located in the sixth mounting position 135 f for receiving the sixth rail 120 f
  • a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve for supporting a secondary bushing 212 , located in the third rail position 135 c for receiving the third rail 120 c .
  • carrier 130 e includes a first mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve for supporting a primary bushing 221 located in the fifth rail position 135 e for receiving the fifth rail 120 e and a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve for supporting a bushing 222 , located in the second rail position 135 b for receiving the second rail 120 b . As shown in FIG.
  • carrier 130 f includes a first mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve for supporting a primary bushing 231 located in the fourth rail position 135 d for receiving the fourth rail 120 d and a second mounting feature 134 including a mounting sleeve supporting a bushing 232 , located in the first rail position 135 a for receiving the first rail 120 f.
  • each of the first body portion and second body portion of each carrier can define at least one recess for accommodating at least one rail therethrough.
  • the recess can be located at any rail position where a mounting feature is not present.
  • each carrier 130 a - 130 f also can include a unique arrangement of recesses or cutouts for accommodating passage of the rails that are not specifically associated therewith (i.e., the rails they are not mounted on), and more specifically the mounting features of adjacent carriers, as will be discussed in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 8 b.
  • carrier 130 a includes an upper recess 173 spanning the second and third rail positions 135 b , 135 c for accommodating rails 120 b , 120 c , as well as the primary bushings 181 and 191 of carriers 130 b and 130 c , respectively.
  • Carrier 130 a further includes a lower recess 174 spanning the fifth and sixth rail positions 135 e , 135 f for accommodating rails 120 e and 120 f when the carriers are in the nested position shown in FIG. 8 b.
  • each of the remaining five carriers have a unique arrangement of recesses for accommodating the mounting features 134 of adjacent carriers and rails unassociated therewith.
  • Carriers 130 b and 130 e each have four single-rail recesses at the first, third, fourth and sixth rail positions 135 a , 135 c , 135 d , 135 f for accommodating individual bushings of adjacent carriers, while the other carriers 130 a , 130 c , 130 d and 130 f each have two dual-rail recesses spanning adjacent rail positions for accommodating two mounting sleeves of adjacent carriers.
  • the relative positions of carriers 130 a - 130 f can vary from those shown in FIGS. 8 a and 8 b , while still maintaining the desired nested arrangement.
  • each carrier disclosed in FIGS. 7-8 is provided with mounting sleeves containing bushings.
  • These bushings are preferably formed from a metallic material, such as, for example, bronze, and they may be readily removed and replaced if they become worn.
  • the bushings may be formed from a self-lubricating polymeric material, such as Nylon, or a fluoropolymer such as PTFE.
  • mounting features 134 include reciprocating linear ball bearings.
  • the primary mounting sleeve of each carrier 130 projects outwardly from each lateral face of the carrier and has an overall axial length that is equal to about five times the width of the carrier body.
  • the secondary mounting apertures are coextensive with the carrier body. The resulting construct is extremely stable.
  • the bushings e.g., 171 . . .
  • the first bushing can be removably attached to the first body portion by way of one or more threaded fasteners 133 , for example, as depicted in FIGS. 18( a )- 18 ( d ).
  • the carriers embodied herein can further include an instrumentality for performing an operation on a web of material.
  • the instrumentality is a blade.
  • each blade holder 140 includes a blade 145 .
  • blade holders 140 are industry standard pneumatically actuated dovetail mounting blade holders 140 a - 140 f .
  • each blade holder 140 includes a generally rectangular housing 142 having a mounting portion 144 for receiving a dovetail mounting flange 132 , as well as an air inlet 146 for receiving a pneumatic actuator line 148 that is operably coupled to an air manifold, discussed in detail below.
  • Blade 145 can be chosen, for example, from the group consisting of razor blades, shear slitting blades and score slitting blades.
  • blade holder 140 and carrier 130 may be provided as separate members, or may be integrally formed and constitute a single part.
  • flange 132 can be mounted in a variety of locations on the carrier. While the carriers depicted in FIGS. 3-6 depict flange 132 disposed on first body portion 136 , flange 132 can alternatively be mounted on second body portion 138 . By way of further example, the flange 132 can be disposed on medial body portion 139 of each carrier disposed between the first body portion 136 and the second body portion 138 .
  • the system disclosed herein is not limited to score slitting applications and machines.
  • the subject system can be applied to any suitable converting machine application where a web of material is involved and a plurality of instrumentalities are needed to perform an operation on the web, such as in printing operations, lamination and sealing operations (such as in forming pouches or inflatable packaging material), thermal bonding and coating applications, and the like.
  • a linear actuator and positioner operatively associated with the elongate housing can be provided.
  • carriage assembly 102 further includes a linear actuator 152 including a servo motor 150 , which is operatively associated with housing 110 .
  • Linear actuator 152 is adapted and configured to selectively position each of the carriers 130 a - 130 f in a desired location using positioner 156 along the rails 120 a - 120 f , either manually, or in accordance with a predefined set up routine, as instructed by a control system 300 described in more detail below.
  • linear actuator 152 is mounted for linear movement along on an axis X disposed within housing 110 using a drive 157 . As depicted in FIGS.
  • linear actuator 152 can include a power screw 153 rotatably mounted in a plurality of support blocks 153 a including supportive ball bearings 153 b and retainers 153 c operably coupled to a motor 157 , wherein positioner 156 , including body 151 rides along power screw 153 via a threaded collar 151 a .
  • drive 157 can take other forms, such as a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder to displace body 151 along axis X, if desired.
  • a position sensor 154 can be provided that is operatively associated with positioner 156 for selectively locating the carriers 130 a - 130 f along the rails 120 a - 120 f .
  • each carrier 130 a - 130 f can be provided with an identifiable marker 155 a - 155 f (see FIGS. 7 a - 7 f ) that can be readily detected by the position sensor 154 through reflectance or a similar modality.
  • the marker can be an optical markers and/or a magnetic marker or a radio frequency identification marker, among others, including mechanical limit switches, for example.
  • position sensor 154 is configured and adapted to detect the position of each carrier by way of position sensor 155 .
  • positioner 156 including body 151 is operatively associated with linear actuator 152 and position sensor 154 , for selectively engaging carriers 130 a - 130 f , as instructed by the control system 300 .
  • the positioner 156 is adapted and configured to displace an engagement member 158 in a direction perpendicular to the axis X of the rails 120 to engage a carrier 130 by moving between a retracted or disengaged position shown in FIG. 5 and an extended or engaged position shown in FIG. 6 .
  • engagement member 158 such as a spherical ball, seats in positioner receiving portions 160 a - 160 f depicted as concavities formed in the rear surfaces of carriers 130 a - 130 f.
  • the engagement member 158 of positioner 156 is spaced from concavity 160 f formed in the rear surface of carrier 130 f .
  • the engagement member 158 of positioner 156 is seated in the concavity 160 f of carrier 130 f .
  • the carrier 130 f will be moved therewith along rails 120 a and 120 d to a desired position on the carriage assembly 102 .
  • the positioner 156 will retract the engagement member 158 from the concavity 160 f and the positioner 156 will proceed to another location, as instructed by the control system 300 , discussed in detail below.
  • engagement members 158 can be used. While a mechanical system has been depicted, other systems, such as a system using electromagnets to selectively engage each carrier 130 are well within the scope of the disclosure.
  • the system 100 can further include an electronically controlled air manifold 320 operably coupled to the controller 330 , discussed below.
  • the air manifold can be pneumatically coupled to the knife holders 140 mounted on carriers 130 and be adapted and configured to selectively actuate blade 145 on each carrier 130 from a first retracted position to a second extended position.
  • the controller 330 can also be programmed to actuate one or more blades necessary to perform a desired web slitting operation.
  • the air manifold 320 can also be pneumatically coupled to a locking bladder 162 as depicted in FIGS. 5-6 , for example.
  • the locking bladder 162 can be changed from an unlocked, uninflated state where it does not contact the carriers 130 , permitting the carriers 130 to be moved along the rails 120 by positioner 156 , to a locked, inflated state, where the carriers 130 are locked in position on the rails 120 to perform an operation on a web of material.
  • the positioner 156 can be adapted and configured to verify the position of each carrier 130 after the bladder 162 has been inflated to verify that bladder inflation or other movement has not altered the setup configuration.
  • a control system can be provided for controlling the system in a partial or fully automatic manner.
  • control system 300 is operably coupled to the positioner (e.g., 156 herein) to create a fully or semi-automated positioning system.
  • the control system 300 includes a machine readable program that is adapted to be read by a controller 330 in order to operate various portions of system 100 in accordance with the methods of operation embodied herein.
  • the computer program may be embodied either in software or in hardware, such as a memory chip.
  • the computer program may be written using well known techniques as are well known in the art.
  • the computer program in accordance with the invention has instructions therein for operating the system 100 .
  • the instructions in machine readable format will be contained on a computer chip or other memory device 302 in the system 100 for controller 330 to access when system 100 is operated by an operator via interface 310 .
  • the computer chip 302 containing the instructions in machine readable format will be accessed by the controller 330 to operate the system 100 .
  • the computer program may also be embodied in a software program and run from a computer located inside or outside of the device.
  • control system 300 can be adapted and configured to selectively position the carriers 130 a - 130 f along the rails 120 of carriage assembly 102 by using positioner 156 including linear actuator 152 as described herein.
  • Control system 300 can be further configured via machine readable program to scan the locations of carriers 130 using position sensor 154 of positioner 156 to determine the accuracy of the set up relative to a desired arrangement.
  • the arrangement can be predefined in system memory 302 , or may be input by an operator arrangement through graphical user interface 310 , discussed below or other means, such as RF connection or computer network 304 .
  • the control system 300 of system 100 can be programmed to automatically reposition any carrier 130 that is not within the tolerances of the predefined arrangement before completing the setup.
  • the system also employs a graphical user interface 310 that is easy to operate and facilitates the ready storage and retrieval of a multitude of predefined knife holder arrangements.
  • an operator can optionally initially enter a number of variables such as the web width, number of cuts to be performed in the case of a slitting operation, the distance to the first knife, left trim and right trim into appropriate fields in the graphical user interface by way of a touch screen 312 or keypad 314 , for example.
  • the operator is then prompted by system 100 to enter the cut widths.
  • the cut width fields 316 will be automatically populated after the operator enters a single cut width. All cuts are then displayed, and the operator may adjust each or any one on an individual basis.
  • the operator must then verify the entered variables.
  • the graphical user interface 310 can be adapted and configured to facilitate storage and retrieval of a plurality of setup configurations.
  • an operator can enter groups of cuts of different widths. For example, an operator can input a first group of cuts 1.0 inches wide, and a second group of cuts 1.25 inches wide. Any suitable number of groups can be entered requesting any number of cuts of a desired width.
  • the control system 300 then verifies that all cut widths do not exceed the web width of the media and that the cut width does not exceed the travel limit of positioner 156 based upon the first knife position.
  • the program then responds by instructing the operator to verify the number and range of knives currently installed. Air is then applied via air manifold 320 to the employed knife holders 140 and locking pneumatic bladder 162 by way of individual controllable solenoid valves 322 , and the control system 300 performs an initial knife position scan. During this scan, the control system 300 checks that the proper number of knives are installed, that the knives that are installed are within predefined limits, and the store position of each knife.
  • the control system 300 herein can use a PLC or PC based controller 330 to perform operational tasks, including, but not limited to the following tasks: a) run a series of algorithms designed to compare the actual carrier 130 quantity and locations to the desired setup conditions stored in memory; b) prompt the operator if more carriers 130 (e.g., with blades 145 ) are required for the setup; c) calculate the storage area and storage locations for unused carriers 130 ; d) calculate the number of moves and most efficient method for positioning the carriers 130 ; e) send a series of commands to the servo-driven actuator to perform the moves; f) analyze the carrier and blade locations of the performed setup and compare that to predefined tolerance range; g) perform additional moves to achieve the tolerance range required and/or complete the setup routine. Controller 330 is operably coupled to the various parts of system 100 , including, for example, linear actuator 152 , air manifold 320 and graphical user interface 310 .
  • controller 330 can be further programmed to minimize the time necessary to execute the setup configuration.
  • the controller 330 can minimize the time necessary to execute the setup configuration at least in part by calculating the minimum number of moves needed to be made by the positioner.
  • the controller 330 may be further programmed to send a series of commands to the linear actuator 152 and positioner 156 to cause the positioner 156 to move the carriers 130 to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • the controller 330 may additionally be programmed to send instructions to the linear actuator 152 and positioner 156 to scan the location of each carrier 130 by using a position sensor operatively associated with the positioner, as indicated in the below list.
  • the controller 330 can be further programmed to determine whether each carrier 130 has been positioned within a tolerance range, and optionally to instruct the positioner 156 to perform additional moves to the carriers 130 to achieve the tolerance range required to satisfy the setup configuration.
  • system variables can be measured, detected and/or displayed on screen 312 and utilized by the controller 330 to perform the various tasks described above.
  • system variables can include, for example:
  • the following list of variables may be displayed and/or selected by the operator by way of a series of prompts or data entry fields contained in the graphical user interface.
  • the graphical user interface 310 can also be configured to display the following informational items relative to a particular knife setup or job recipe.
  • system can be provided with a second set of rails and carriers.
  • FIGS. 9-19 another embodiment of a device 100 made in accordance with the teachings of the invention is depicted. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3-8 . However, instead of only having a single-sided carriage 102 with a set of rails for supporting a plurality of carriers, the embodiment of FIGS. 9( a )- 9 ( b ) includes a dual-sided carriage 200 capable of biasing two rows of instrumentalities, such as knives 145 , against sleeve roll 12 . As depicted, carriage 200 includes a first side or first wall 202 and a second side or second wall 204 disposed proximate the first wall 202 .
  • the second wall 204 is displaced from the first wall 202 along a direction of travel of the web Z.
  • Each of sides 202 , 204 support a first plurality of rails 120 and a second plurality of rails 220 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis X.
  • each side 202 , 204 includes upper rails 120 a , 120 b and lower rails 120 d and 120 e .
  • any suitable number of rails 120 can be employed in accordance with the teachings herein.
  • FIG. 13 depicts an isometric view of carriage assembly 200 from one view
  • FIG. 14 depicts an isometric view of carriage assembly mirrored about the center axis to view the side including the drive system 157
  • FIGS. 15( a )- 15 ( f ) are a left side plan view, a top plan view, a right side plan view, a bottom plan view, a drive end plan view and an idle end plan view of the embodiment of FIGS. 9-14 , respectively.
  • FIG. 16 is a view of the embodiment of FIG. 9 further depicting a lift assembly support 250 operatively connected to the carriage assembly 200 .
  • lift assembly support 250 includes a plurality (e.g., three) adjustable mounting supports 252 .
  • each mounting support 252 includes a vertically displaceable member, such as a power screw. The height of each mounting support 252 may be varied by rotating each power screw by interaction with a worm gear, for example, attached to shaft 260 .
  • Shaft 258 is caused to rotate by motor 254 via belt 256 .
  • Shaft 258 is supported by a plurality of journal bearings 262 .
  • supports 252 may be independently hydraulically or pneumatically actuated.
  • a first and second plurality of carriers 130 are provided on the rails 120 , 220 of each wall 202 , 204 of carriage 200 .
  • Each carrier 130 is configured and adapted to support a blade holder 140 .
  • each carrier 130 includes a first portion 136 having a first mounting feature 134 and a second portion 138 having a second mounting feature 134 , wherein each mounting feature 134 is configured and adapted to receive one of the plurality of rails 120 .
  • FIGS. 9( a )- 9 ( b ) are configured and adapted to collapse into a nested configuration, as shown in FIGS. 17( a ) and 17 ( b ).
  • FIG. 17( b ) depicts how the mounting feature 134 of a first carrier 130 a can be received by a recess in an adjacent carrier 130 b .
  • mounting feature 134 is attached to each carrier 130 using a threaded fastener 133 (e.g., screws), as depicted in FIGS. 18( a )- 18 ( d ).
  • recess portions of mounting features 134 can be integrally formed with the body of carrier as depicted in FIGS. 3-4 and 7 - 8 .
  • carrier 130 further includes an upper recess 173 in the second rail position 135 b for accommodating passage of rail 120 b as depicted in FIG. 17( b ).
  • Carrier 130 further includes a lower recess 174 in the fourth rail position 135 d for accommodating rail 120 d when the carriers 130 are in the nested position shown in FIG. 17( b ).
  • FIGS. 18( a )- 18 ( b ) depict mounting features 134 disposed in the first and third rail positions 135 a , 135 c of carrier 130
  • FIGS. 18( c )- 18 ( d ) depict mounting features 134 disposed in the second and fourth rail positions 135 b , 135 d of carrier 130 .
  • linear actuator 152 is disposed below carriage assembly 200 .
  • the linear actuator 152 may be adapted and configured to selectively position each of a first carrier 130 of the first plurality of carriers and a second carrier from the second plurality of carriers in a desired location along the plurality of rails 120 , 220 on each wall 202 , 204 .
  • positioner 156 includes two engagement members 158 deployable by (e.g., pneumatic) positioning cylinders 159 for selectively engaging each carrier 130 on either side 202 , 204 of carriage 200 .
  • each carrier 130 may define a positioner receiving portion 160 for receiving an engagement member 158 of the positioner 156 .
  • a single linear actuator 152 can be provided, as depicted, or if desired, dual side-by-side linear actuators 152 can be provided.
  • locking bladders 162 are provided to lock the carriers 130 in position in advance of performing a slitting operation, and the system 100 can be configured to verify the position of each of the carriers 130 both before and after inflation of bladders 162 .
  • FIG. 10 depicts the engagement members 158 withdrawn from the carriers 130 along both walls 202 , 204 .
  • FIG. 11 illustrates the engagement member 158 withdrawn from the carriers 130 mounted along the second wall 204 and engaged with one of the carriers 130 mounted along the first wall 202 .
  • FIG. 12 conversely, depicts the engagement member 158 withdrawn from the carriers 130 mounted along the first wall 202 and engaged with one of the carriers 130 mounted along the second wall 204 .
  • the system 100 of FIGS. 9( a )- 9 ( b ) can be preprogrammed and configured either manually, or in accordance with a computer readable program and computer system in a manner similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3-8 , but accounting for the second set of carriers 130 and blade holders 140 .
  • a dual-sided carriage 200 it is possible to slit a web into even thinner segments than with the embodiment of FIGS. 3-8 , since twice as many blades are available to be positioned by positioner 156 .
  • this arrangement permits blade holders 140 on either side 202 , 204 of carriage 200 to be staggered with respect to each other, permitting the minimum slit width to be reduced as compared to the embodiment of FIGS.
  • Controller 330 can be programmed to instruct the positioner 156 to selectively position the first carrier 130 and second carrier 130 along the plurality of rails in accordance with a setup configuration as described herein above.
  • the controller 330 can be configured to arrange the carriers 130 along the first wall 202 in alignment with carriers 130 displaced along the second wall 204 . If desired, the carriers 130 along the first wall 202 can be out of alignment with carriers 130 displaced along the second wall 204 .
  • the carriers 130 in each of the first plurality of carriers and second plurality of carriers can be in mutually supporting intimate contact as described herein.
  • a locking bladder 162 can be provided to hold each carrier 130 in the system in position after being positioned by the positioner 156 .

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Forests & Forestry (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Details Of Cutting Devices (AREA)
  • Replacement Of Web Rolls (AREA)
  • Special Conveying (AREA)
  • Machine Tool Units (AREA)
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US20060162519A1 (en) 2006-07-27
DE602005004747T2 (de) 2009-02-05
EP1676681A1 (de) 2006-07-05
ATE385880T1 (de) 2008-03-15
DE602005004747D1 (de) 2008-03-27
EP1676681B1 (de) 2008-02-13

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